Hawkesbury Animal Shelter’s Open Day strikes a chord with residents

ONE of the best parts of the recent open day at Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter was the rehoming of two dogs and a cat and interest for many more pets

Jenevieve Baxter with her assistance dog Rocky at the Hawkesbury Animal Companion Shelter Open Day at Mulgrave. Pictures: Hawkesbury Council

ONE of the best parts of the recent open day at Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter was the rehoming of two dogs and a cat and interest for many more pets

Many of the 500 guests also took up the offer of free micro chipping, with 28 dogs and cats micro chipped on the day.

The Hawkesbury Council, which runs the shelter, also raised more than $400 on the day in addition to handing over hundreds of free plants to residents as a part of the National Tree Day giveaway.

Aiden Miller with his winning dog Cruise at the open day.

In addition to the two dogs and one cat which were rehomed, many residents also put their names down on a waiting list for a pet, for when they are ready to be adopted.

Imogen and Juliet with Taco the chihuahua.

”Thank you to all who attended on the day to support the Animal Shelter and received a free plant in the process,” a council spokeswoman said.

Lauren and Spook competing in the high jump event.

“It is great that the two events were held in conjunction with each other to celebrate Local Government Week.

Young Zali with her plant she received.

The event is organised by the Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter staff and included animal focused market stalls, the stand out activities being paw fingerprinting on canvas, as well as demonstrations by the Australian Working Dog Rescue Int (AWDRI).

Community Nursery officer Jutta Hamilton helps a young guest choose a plant.

The Hawkesbury Community Nursery, located next door to the shelter, gave away hundreds of free plants to residents.

“The plants that the Community Nursery gave away will help local residents use less fertiliser, reduce water costs, and control pests, because these plants prefer local conditions and generally help to achieve a healthier garden,” the spokeswoman said.

Community bushcare officer Martin Gauci gives plant advice.

“The most popular choices were goodenia, water gum, mint bush, and bottlebrush.

“Residents were given local expert advice on how to revamp their gardens in time for spring, and how to deal with noxious weeds, thanks to an informative display from Hawkesbury River County Council staff.

The Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter operates Monday to Friday: 9am — 12.30pm and 2pm — 4.30pm, Saturday 9.30am — 11.30am and Sunday 7am — 9am.

The Community Nursery sells plants to the general public and is open every Wednesday from 9am — 1pm.

New volunteers for the Community Nursery and the Hawkesbury Bushcare program are always welcome.

Details: 4560 4525.

Address: 10 Mulgrave Rd, Mulgrave.